For many of us, cleaning is one of those dreaded chores we put off for as long as possible. Whether it’s the thought of scrubbing floors or tackling piles of laundry, the idea of keeping a home spotless can feel overwhelming. Luckily, the internet is full of clever cleaning shortcuts shared by people who feel exactly the same way. These “lazy hacks” offer simple and effective ways to keep your home clean with minimal effort.
Here are 10 crowdsourced tips to help you maintain a spotless home without spending hours scrubbing and organizing.
1. Use Dryer Sheets to Dust Surfaces
Dryer sheets aren’t just for your laundry. One lazy hack that many swear by is using dryer sheets to dust surfaces. Not only do they pick up dust, but they also leave behind a light, anti-static residue that helps prevent future dust buildup. Swipe one across baseboards, blinds, and shelves for a quick and effective clean.
2. Line Shelves and Drawers with Wax Paper
Cleaning shelves and drawers can be a pain, especially when crumbs and dust accumulate. Instead of constantly wiping them down, try lining them with wax paper. The paper collects dust and debris, making it easy to remove and replace without needing to clean the actual surface.
3. Toss Items in a Basket for Fast Cleanup
Clutter is a common issue in many homes. Instead of meticulously organizing everything each day, grab a basket and toss any stray items into it. When you have time later, you can sort through the basket, but this quick fix keeps things tidy when guests show up unexpectedly.
4. Steam Clean the Microwave with Water and Lemon
No one enjoys scrubbing stubborn food splatters in the microwave. Here’s an easier way: fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few lemon slices, then microwave it for five minutes. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe down with a cloth. Plus, the lemon leaves your microwave smelling fresh!
5. Shower While You Clean
Cleaning the bathroom doesn’t have to be a separate task. Combine your shower routine with a quick clean! Keep a sponge or a scrub brush in the shower and wipe down the tiles and walls while you're in there. This trick helps prevent soap scum buildup and keeps your shower looking fresh with little effort.
6. Keep a Lint Roller Handy
Lint rollers are perfect for picking up more than just pet hair from clothes. Use them to quickly clean fabric furniture, lampshades, or even curtains. They’re great for those in-between times when you don’t have time for a full vacuum but still want to freshen up the space.
7. Spray and Walk Away for Sparkling Toilets
Instead of scrubbing your toilet every day, try this lazy hack: spray the inside of the bowl with a bathroom cleaner (or a mix of vinegar and baking soda), let it sit for a few minutes, and then flush. The cleaner does most of the work for you, and you’ll avoid the need for constant scrubbing.
8. Use Your Dishwasher for More Than Just Dishes
Your dishwasher can clean more than plates and utensils. Take advantage of its cleaning power by loading it up with non-dish items like toys, vent covers, or even your oven’s range hood filters. Just be sure to avoid items that could melt, and you’ll have clean, sanitized items with minimal effort.
9. Vacuum in Sections to Avoid Overwhelm
The idea of vacuuming the whole house at once can feel exhausting. Instead, break the task down into smaller sections. For example, focus on one room or area each day. This lazy hack helps you stay on top of vacuuming without dedicating a large chunk of time to it. Plus, it's a great way to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
10. Embrace the ‘One-Minute Rule'
A simple but highly effective trick to stay on top of cleaning is the “one-minute rule.” If a task will take a minute or less to complete, do it right away. Whether it's wiping a countertop, putting away dishes, or picking up laundry, tackling small tasks immediately prevents them from piling up into bigger jobs.
Conclusion
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or exhausting process. These crowdsourced “lazy hacks” are designed to help you keep your home tidy with minimal effort. By incorporating just a few of these tricks into your routine, you’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to maintain a spotless home. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by cleaning, remember: a few smart shortcuts can go a long way!